Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage, Tomatoes And Cream
Creamy bow tie pasta with flavorful Italian sausage, tomatoes, and a hint of spice, perfect for satisfying dinners with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed and crumbled
- 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes ⓘ
- 1/2 c. diced onion ⓘ
- 3 garlic cloves, minced ⓘ
- 1 (28 oz.) can Italian plum tomatoes, drained and coarsely chopped ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. heavy cream ⓘ
- 12 oz. bow tie pasta ⓘ
- parsley (optional) ⓘ
- Parmesan cheese (optional) ⓘ
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a heavy large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sausage and red pepper flakes; cook for 7 minutes, breaking up the sausage as it cooks.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add drained and chopped tomatoes and heavy cream; simmer over low heat for about 4 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting turkey sausage for the sweet Italian sausage. If you're short on time, pre-chopped onions and garlic can save you some prep work. To add more vegetables, try incorporating spinach or bell peppers. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired spice level, or omit them for a milder dish. This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with garlic bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a side of roasted zucchini. Explore more Italian recipes to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring often to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bow Tie Pasta With Sausage, Tomatoes And Cream contains roughly 662 calories, with 41g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (424% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (123% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 935mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute bow tie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different pasta shapes may require varying amounts of time to cook until al dente.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a mixture of your favorite vegetables. You can also add some plant-based sausage for a similar texture and flavor, while retaining the creamy sauce.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it's possible to freeze the dish, the cream sauce may separate when thawed. If you choose to freeze it, do so in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop and add a splash of cream to help restore the sauce's consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).